Project Management Skills For Managing Big Data Projects

Interested in managing a big data project? Or maybe you need to hire someone to manage an upcoming project?

The following is a list of just some of the essentials skills required to successfully manage a big data project.

Cross-functional team management experience

While most project managers already have this core skill as most projects typically involve managing
cross functional teams, project managers need to realize that the teams and skill sets required for big data projects
will be expanded to include a diverse group of professionals, including engineering disciplines, scientists,
business analysts, business “super” users, operations, etc.

Ability to see the big picture

The primary goal of a big data project is to “make sense” of all the diverse and complex data. A big picture approach is necessary
to achieve this objective.

Data-driven thinking

To fully realize the untapped potential of their data, organizations must employ data-driven thinking vs.
relying on past experiences or instincts. The big data project management approach is discovery-driven where
decisions are made based on data and analysis vs. the intuition and vast experience of the project manager.

Ability to deal with ambiguity

Big data projects require PMs to embrace the unknown. They may not currently have the answers, but must be
committed to uncovering them through experimentation and evidence-based findings.

Technical skills

According to Tech Republic, “The current state of big data also lends itself to a fair amount of experimentation,
which is another reason why there is a need for a project manager with at least some technical skills.”

Process development skills

Such skills will play an important role in adapting an organization's existing processes to big data.

Traditionally, IT project managers concentrated on planning and proactively identifying and mitigating the risks of
deploying a defined technology solution. PMs will be required to shift focus to solving business problems.